BERKELEY COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA

Berkeley County, South Carolina lies within the Charleston Trident Metropolitan Statistical Area in the southeastern portion of the state. Berkeley County citizens take pride in their heritage and the deep, rich history of the county. Berkeley County, SC residents have convenient access to sources of business and recreation via I-26 and I-95. Interstate 95 runs parallel to the coastline and I-26 provides a quick route to and from the bustling city of Charleston, South Carolina and the pristine beaches found along the Atlantic Ocean.

Known as a “sportsman’s paradise”, the Berkeley County area provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. Choices include boating, hunting and fishing at world-famous sites such as Lake Marion or Lake Moultrie. In addition, the Francis Marion National Forest provides the ideal setting for bird watching, biking, camping and hiking. Charleston, along with the entire Berkeley County, SC area, attracts history buffs and vacationers for sites that include Gibbes Museum of Art, the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, the Ghosts and Legends of Charleston Tours and the South Carolina Aquarium. Popular tourist destinations such as Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach are also within a reasonable driving distance.

Berkeley County, South Carolina stretches across nearly 1,230 square miles and is home to 142,651 residents (according to the 2000 Census Data). Berkeley County, along with the counties of Charleston and Dorchester comprise the Charleston Trident Metropolitan Area. In 2005, Census estimates reported the sprawling metro area population at approximately 600,000 residents. Cities and towns located within Berkeley County, SC include Bonneau, Charleston, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Huger, Jamestown, Ladson, Moncks Corner, North Charleston, St. Stephen and Summerville. Berkeley is among South Carolina’s fastest growing counties.

Moncks Corner, located 30 miles north of Charleston, serves as the seat of Berkeley County, SC. Local historians claim the name originates with landowner Thomas Monk. Around 1738, Moncks Corner began as a trading post on a corner section of Mr. Monk’s Mitton Plantation. Today Moncks Corner is home to more than 6,000 residents and a thriving downtown area with a high rise office building and numerous businesses. Residents and visitors enjoy a slower paced lifestyle where recreational activities such as boating, fishing, hunting and skiing provide the bulk of entertainment.

Berkeley County, South Carolina acts as an important hub of commerce and industry in the region. Once a primarily agricultural and forest supported economy, Berkeley County now boasts a dynamic manufacturing sector as its largest base of employment. Currently, more than 50 manufacturing centers operated facilities in Berkeley County, SC. These include such well-known companies as Amoco, Bayer Corporation and DuPont.

Education plays a significant role in Berkeley County, SC. Residents have access to an excellent public school system, which accommodates 35 schools in the district. There are also two independent private schools from which to choose. In addition, several career and continuing education centers for adults exist within Berkeley County.

Berkeley County, South Carolina revels in a diverse culture that goes back more than 300 years. With its outdoor recreation, historic sites, mild climate, and southern hospitality, Berkeley County has become haven as well as home to its residents.